Chapter Ten, A Walk in the Park of Paradise:
It was a few days into July when they returned home from the
hospital with Serena. Her beautiful white, silver, and pink room was
set up in the room across the hall, but Serenity wanted to keep the
baby in her room until she was older. Thus the crib was set up in
the room with Wesley and Serenity. When Serenity came home, she
found the next half of her belated birthday present. It was one
large waterbed for her and Wesley. "Oh Wesley! It is gorgeous.
Thank you darling," and she kissed him briefly while laying the
baby down gently and carefully in the crib. The crib had beautiful
white and pink lace around it that Wesley had surprised her by
buying and placing around the crib while she was in the hospital.
"Oh you are just full of pleasant surprises love, are you not?"
Serenity asked joyfully.
Wesley smiled. "I guess I am. I just wanted to surprise you
so badly."
"It is beautiful. Thank you darling."
"You are welcome dearest."
That night they took turns getting up for the baby. They had
agreed the first time she cried, Serenity would get up, the second
time Wesley would get up, and so on throughout the night. However,
the next night Wesley would go first, and the next night Serenity
would be first again. Thus they established a pattern from the
beginning to prevent any future arguments. They also agreed ahead
of time that in the event that one of them was to become sick the
other would get up the whole night to take care of the baby for all
the nights until the sick person felt considerably better.
On July 30, they celebrated with multi colored confetti and
sparkly streamers throughout the living room. They were celebrating
having this wonderful child in their lives for one month.
"She is so wonderful is she not dearest?" Serenity asked.
Wesley nodded happily. "She amazes me. She is so curious
about everything. The smallest thing can make her so upset which
pierces my heart with sadness, but then the smallest thing can bring
a smile to her face and happiness surges through my body. Plus she
is so adorable. Look at those light baby blue eyes and that short,
curly golden blond hair. Though I do not know where the curly blond
hair comes from."
"Me neither," Serenity admitted. "Although my mother did
have curly hair, but the person she got the blond hair from eludes
me as well.
"Ah well, I do not understand that study of genetics, so
perhaps she does not have to have a relative with that color to
have it herself."
"I am not sure either," Serenity admitted. "Whether it is
possible or not, she is still a miracle to me." She smiled in bliss
as the baby cooed. She cooed with the baby, and Wesley smiled in
contentment and bliss as well.
Wesley put his arms around Serenity, gently embracing her.
Serenity smiled some. "Oh Wesley, I am so happy."
"Me too darling."
"We must be the luckiest parents in the world. The luckiest
people in the world really," Serenity said happily.
Wesley smiled and hugged her, running his fingers through
her hair. "I think we are dearest. I truly think we are."
She turned around in his arms and raised up on her heels
while kissing him passionately on the lips.
Wesley smiled and succumbed to his desires until the baby
cried out. Wesley let go, and Serenity ran to the crib immediately.
"So much for that." Wesley laughed.
"Awww, what is wrong Serena?" she asked her daughter in
concern.
At the beginning of August Wesley came home to find
Serenity on the couch feeding Serena. "Hello dearest," he said
happily.
Serenity looked up. "Oh hello darling. Welcome home. How
was your day at work?"
"Enjoyable more or less. I found out some really exciting
news," he said with shining eyes, sitting next to his wife and
daughter on the white couch.
Serenity turned to her husband and smiled. "I cannot wait
to hear about it. Tell me please darling. I love you," she added,
kissing him softly on the cheek.
He kissed her softly as well on the cheek and said, "I
got a promotion!"
Serenity's eyes widened, and she smiled in excitement.
"That is wonderful darling."
"Yes, I am manager of the health club now, and that means
an increase in pay as well."
"Oh I am so glad dearest. You know I was thinking about
our schedules when I have to go back to work in October. I really
want Serena to simply be taken care of by us. I do not want to
put her in one of these Earth daycares."
"Oh really? Well, all right, I can understand and agree
with that, but can we possibly rearrange our schedules so that
one of us is always here with her?"
Serenity nodded her head. "Yes, I think so. Now that
you are manager, can you not rearrange your hours?"
"I think I should at least wait until I have been
manager a month or two. I will rearrange it in October, just
before you return to work, but I will make sure ahead of time
that I can rearrange the schedule in October."
Serenity smiled. "Oh that is wonderful darling. I was
thinking you could work in the morning while I stay with
Serenity, and I will work in the late afternoon through night.
Unfortunately, I think we will both have to cut our hours down
to eight instead of ten, but I think you can remain with six days
a week while I work five days a week."
Wesley nodded. "Sounds good to me. You know I am a
morning person."
"And you know I am not, so it works well for us both,"
Serenity said happily.
Wesley smiled. "I am glad."
"Me too darling."
So, the next day Serenity called up the bookstore and
had a conversation with the manager, Barbara, about her hours.
She got them cut down to eight hours, and locked into a set
schedule from 3 p.m. to 12 p.m. Sunday through Wednesday and
Friday. "Thank you so much Barbara. I really appreciate this.
Wesley and I really do not want to put Serena in daycare."
"I understand Serenity. You are such a good, hard
worker that we do not want to lose you. We always give our older,
good employees the choice of having the non-flexible schedule.
Also, I want you to know that when you return, we have given
you a one dollar an hour raise in your salary because you have
been with us so long and done such wonderful work."
Serenity gasped. "Oh Barbara, how can I ever thank you?"
Barbara laughed. "No need to. Just keep working hard. I
have to go now. Take care Serenity. See you at the end of
October."
"Right," Serenity said, hanging up the phone.
Their two year anniversary was spent happily taking a
stroll through the park with Serena in her stroller. Serenity
and Wesley held hands as Serenity pushed the stroller with her
other arm. "Oh look at that beautiful weeping willow tree,"
Serenity said softly. Wesley pulled gently on her arm, and she
turned the stroller towards the grass as they went under the
willow tree. She turned around for a minute, and they enjoyed
embracing each other and looking into one another's eyes. A
little boy with short, shiny black hair and sparkling blue eyes
walked up to the stroller as Serenity was turning back around
to push the stroller back on the path in order to resume their
stroll through the park. He looked into the stroller curiously.
"Why hello there," Serenity said kindly. "Who are you?"
The little boy shrugged. "I am three," he said.
Wesley and Serenity looked at one another and laughed
in amusement. Then Serenity turned back to him and saw him
looking into the stroller at Serena. Serena giggled and grabbed
one of his small fingers. He smiled. "Awww," Serenity said.
"You should get back to your parents. Where are they?"
Wesley asked kindly.
"Oh, right around the corner. I will go," the boy said,
quickly running off. They turned to each other and chuckled.
"He is so adorable," Serenity said.
"Yes he is," Wesley agreed, smiling at her. They
finished their walk through the park, and they enjoyed a night
of card games and cake at home.
Serenity had a celebration planned for Wesley when he
came home on his 22nd birthday late that September evening. As
he entered the apartment, confetti and tinsel dropped down on
him. He saw a huge banner across the archway leading into the
kitchen saying Happy 22nd Birthday Wesley in huge, bold silver
letters. He saw streamers of all colors throughout the
apartment. There were purple and green, gold and silver, yellow
and orange, red and teal, indigo and blue, and pink and white
streamers. Wesley smiled and ran to his darling in excitement,
wrapping his arms around her and hugging her close. Serenity
smiled and giggled in happiness. "Happy birthday Wesley," she
said.
"Oh, thank you Serenity. It is so much though."
"Aww...it is mostly for Serena," she lied.
"Oh just admit it, you love having her to blame all
your inner child desires on."
Serenity chuckled. "You are right. I never got to have
this much fun as a kid, so I am making up for it now."
Wesley smiled. "Although I had a good childhood, I
never got to be truly innocent or enjoy celebrations like
this," he admitted. "It means so much to me Serenity."
"I know dearest. I am so glad. I want your birthday to
be so special."
"Oh Serenity, any birthday I have with you is always
special," he said compassionately.
Serenity smiled and led him into the kitchen. There
was a huge cake. "I spent all day making it. I got a book on
it and everything. I know it is not perfect, but I think I did
pretty darn good..."
Wesley interrupted her. "It is magnificent," he said
in astonishment.
"Oh what, you did not think I could do something
well?" Serenity asked, teasing him.
"Oh darling, I know how capable and talented you are.
I am just admiring all the intricate flowers and designs. Wow
this will take forever to eat. Thank you honey."
Serenity smiled. "It is so amazing it warrants a new
nickname? Wow I did do well," she teased again.
Wesley smiled happily. "So let us dig in," he said in
excitement.
"Oh wait a minute. Here is your gift. Unwrap it first,
please," Serenity requested.
"Oh the torture. That chocolate cake beckons me
dearest Serenity, but all right." He tore into the wrapping
paper, unwrapping a gift card to the nearest work out store.
"I did not know the best equipment to buy, or what you
like the most," Serenity said. "So, I simply got you the gift
card. I hope that you get to pick out what you like," she said
in excitement.
"Oh Serenity," he said gratefully. "Thank you honey,"
he said, embracing her.
"Aww thank you too honey. Now to the cake," she said
in excitement. They ran and tore into the cake, stuffing it
into their faces happily.
It was in the middle of October that Wesley came home
announcing he had rearranged his schedule so that he worked
from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sunday through Friday. With his
increase in pay and her small increase in pay, the hours they
cut out did not affect their pay as greatly though it still
was a decrease in the amount they had extra each month, but
they both agreed they did not need the money and that it was
much more worthwhile to spend that time with precious Serena.
"Oh I am so glad you got your schedule rearranged
honey," Serenity said to Wesley that evening.
"I know. You start the day before Halloween do you
not?"
"Yes darling, but I do not work on Halloween. We can
go door to door with Serena in a stroller. I am sure that we
could get so much candy."
"Serenity, the holiday is for children not babies."
"Awww, but now we have an excuse to get candy,"
Serenity whined.
Wesley chuckled. "Oh all right. I suppose we could
try taking Serena to a few houses and getting some candy."
"Oh thank you honey."
"You are welcome dearest," and he kissed her on the
cheek before going to the bathroom to take a shower.
Just as he was starting the shower, he heard Serenity
yell for him to come back into the living room. She was
squealing with delight, and Wesley looked to see Serena
rolling over from her back onto her stomach and then back
onto her back again. Wesley smiled. "Oh, how adorable."
Serenity was still squealing. Finally she stopped and
ran up and jumped into Wesley's arms. "She is so precious is
she not?"
Wesley smiled and nodded his head in agreement. "Yes,
so precious. Just like her mother."
Serenity smiled and embraced him.
On Halloween they put four month year old Serena in a
small, comfy bunny costume. Serenity wore a big bunny costume,
and Wesley wore a big bunny costume too. Serenity laughed.
"You are so silly dearest."
Wesley smiled and chuckled. "Yeah, I know."
They did get some candy as well as some strange looks.
Serenity just glared at those people while Wesley chuckled.
One lady smiled and tickled Serena. Serenity smiled.
"She is beautiful," the lady said.
Serenity nodded. "Yes, she is. Thank you."
That night they plopped down in exhaustion on the
couch. "I forgot to ask you. How was your first day back at
work yesterday?" Wesley asked.
"Exhausting," Serenity admitted, "but nice to be
back."
Wesley smiled. "Well at least we discovered that the
schedule works."
Serenity pulled her raincoat's hood over her head as
she ran through the rain with her arms outstretched. She was
enjoying the smell and exhilarating feeling from the fresh
falling rain. She ran up to the door to her apartment and
opened it after shaking off her raincoat.
Wesley turned around and smiled at her. "Welcome
home honey," he said, embracing her.
She plopped down on the couch, lying out. "I am so
exhausted." She sighed. "Nice rain though," she added.
"Yes, it is enjoyable," Wesley agreed. "Though
somewhat frightening to see nature with such power."
"Oh, you are so silly Wesley."
He sat down beside her and sighed, lying out with
her. "I am exhausted too. Although I did just take a half
hour nap."
"Oh well then quit complaining," Serenity said,
teasing. Wesley laughed. "Where is Serena?" Serenity asked,
concerned.
"It is after midnight dearest. She is sleeping."
"Oh darn," Serenity said. "If she has been sleeping
now that means she will be up soon."
"Do not worry about that. Just go to sleep dearest.
I got a few hours of sleep in all while you were at work,
so it is your turn. I look after her at night. You know
that."
"I know," Serenity sighed in relief. "Thank you,
but sometimes I feel it is unfair for you. I mean you only
get to rest at certain intervals while the baby sleeps
between 7 p.m. and 12 p.m., and if she cries you have to
get up. I get to sleep from 12:30 or 1 a.m. to 5:30 a.m.
every morning. At least I get a full four and a half to
five hours straight. You get maybe two or three hours while
I am at work. Those hours are not even straight though."
"Well, I also get an hour from 2:30 p.m. to 3:30
p.m. straight before you go to work."
"That is the only time you are assured to not be
woken up by the baby though, and it is only an hour."
"I get to sleep seven hours on Thursday."
"That is true. I get that amount of sleep during
that night though."
Wesley nodded. "Thursdays and Saturdays are just
good for us both." Serenity nodded in agreement.
"Although I think that Saturdays are much better.
On Thursday we still only get to spend an hour together.
The rest of the time is spent catching up on sleep. At least
on Saturday we can each sleep eight hours and still get
eight hours together."
Wesley agreed. "Definitely. I enjoy that time we get
together from 5 p.m. to 1 a.m. Saturday night so much."
"Yes, I do too," Serenity said. She appeared lost in
thought.
"What are you thinking Serenity?" Wesley asked
quietly.
"It is just that...I mean...look at us. We are
exhausted. Exhausted Wesley," she said in exasperation. "I
honestly do not know how much longer we can keep this up. It
has not even been a month. We surely cannot continue this
throughout the years."
Wesley sighed and embraced her. "I understand what
you are saying, but what can we do? Unless you are
reconsidering the decision about daycare."
"No, no. I know. I do not know what we can do. You
are right. I am sorry. I just, I am tired. I am going to go
to bed all right."
"All right Serenity. Goodnight dearest."
"Goodnight honey," and she kissed him on the cheek.
It was the middle of that month while sitting at the
kitchen table enjoying that Saturday evening dinner that
Serenity said. "It is almost time to feed Serena. I think
she is ready for solid baby foods. The book I have said she
should have been ready a couple of weeks ago, but I put it
off because I did not want to rush things."
Wesley nodded. "Oh can I feed her then?" he asked,
excited to finally get the chance to feed Serena.
Serenity nodded. "All right. Go ahead darling."
Wesley sat Serena up on her chair, and he put the
spoon up to her mouth. Serena began bawling, a devastating
sound. Wesley jumped back and covered his ears. "Ughhh, not
again. What did I do this time?" Wesley asked in
exasperation.
"Oh for goodness sakes Wesley. She does not know what
to do. She has never eaten this way before."
"All right, so we have to teach her," Wesley said.
Serenity hit her head. "Naw, really?" she said asked
in sarcasm.
"Ha, ha," Wesley said.
It took awhile, but Serena got the idea eventually.
She did not seem happy though, obviously preferring
Serenity's milk. Thanksgiving was a feast for them. They
both got to enjoy the day together because they had slept
some before it though neither was anywhere near completely
rested. Serenity had long ago stopped complaining about it
which actually concerned Wesley more.
"Serenity, are you all right?"
"Yes honey, why?"
"It is just, you have those circles under your eyes.
You are so exhausted nowadays. I can tell."
Serenity nodded. "You are not getting nearly enough
rest yourself darling."
"True," Wesley agreed.
"Let us just eat and think about good things today,"
Serenity pleaded.
"All right," Wesley agreed again.
They ate their feast with Serena, and she got a new
kind of baby food as a special treat. "Do you realize Serena
is nearly five months old?" Serenity pointed out.
Wesley smiled. "Our little baby is growing up."
"Oh Wesley, no need to sound like that. She is still
a baby. It will be a long time before we say that phrase."
Wesley chuckled. "You are right dearest."
It was the beginning of December, and the first snow
of the year was lying on the ground outside. Serenity was
curled up with Wesley by the fire, and Serena was sleeping
for a little while. "Honey, I need to talk to you about
something serious," Wesley said cautiously.
"Oh Wesley, I do not think this is a good time. I am
so tired."
"Exactly, that is what I want to talk to you about.
This is very important please."
Serenity sighed and turned around a little to look
at his face. "Very well...what is it darling?"
"I do not think you can keep doing this. Frankly I
do not know how much longer I can keep doing this either,
but most of all I am concerned about you and want so badly
for you to get some more rest."
Serenity turned to him. "Please I do want to be here
for our baby, not put her in some daycare."
Wesley nodded. "I understand though I wish you would
rethink it, but I think ultimately you are probably right.
There must be some other solution. We need to think about
this."
Serenity thought for awhile. "I guess it would help
if we could lower our hours at work."
"We both already lowered our hours by two hours
though. I do not think as manager mine can go any lower. Do
you think you could get your manager to lower the hours you
work?"
Serenity thought about that for a minute. "No,
probably not again," she admitted. "I guess we are stuck
Wesley."
"Serenity, we will just have to think for awhile
about a solution because we cannot keep going on like this
no matter what honey."
"All right," Serenity nodded. "I agree."
A few days later, Serenity was at work when she
overheard some customers talking about the new bank opening
across the street, so at the end of her shift she went
across the street to see the bank. It had a sign on it
saying Now Hiring for the opening in January. Serenity
thought about it and decided to check this out and find out
if she could get better hours at this job tomorrow. So the
next day being her day off, she went with Serena in the
stroller to the bank and filled out an application. The next
day she was called in for an interview. She asked if she
could come in during the afternoon before working at the
bookstore, meaning Wesley would miss his afternoon nap. He
said that was worthwhile however, if she could get a new job
with better hours. At the interview, she was asked how long
she could work and how many days. That was when it hit her
that she would do so much better if she could work one less
day each week as well. So she requested seven hours a day,
four days a week. They had looked up her reference to the
quaint bookstore, and she came highly recommended. Thus,
they hired her for the middle of January and told her that
the pay would remain the same as what she had been getting
on her new salary at the bookstore. She told Wesley about
that that night, and they both agreed they would be fine
with a little less money coming in now. They could easily
get by, and the sleep was much more important at this point.
Serenity worked in the bookstore up until the winter
vacation, and then she respectfully quit after having
already explained earlier about the new job at the bank
in January.
When she came home after quitting her job, Serenity
plopped down and lay out on the couch in exhaustion. Wesley
came into the room, circles under his eyes. "Hey honey."
"Hi darling," she mumbled. He lay down beside her on
the couch, embracing her tiredly, and they both fell asleep
there. Luckily Wesley had brought the baby monitor in with him,
so they woke up to the sound of their child crying about half
an hour later.
Serenity rolled over and pushed him off the couch.
Wesley mumbled something and left to go take care of the baby,
but he returned and slept more with her for the next hour or
so again. This time though he put the baby monitor by
Serenity's ears. When Serena started bawling, she screamed and
jumped up at the loud sound in her ear. Wesley chuckled. "Your
turn," he said.
"Hey, you have nights," she complained.
"Yeah, but I missed my afternoon nap again remember?
So you do not get the night completely either."
"Oh, ughhhhhhh, fine. You are right," she mumbled,
getting up reluctantly. She rocked the baby gently in her
arms, and she hummed softly until the baby calmed down and
went back to sleep. Then she plopped down on the bed and went
to sleep deciding to get up whenever the baby cried again and
let Wesley sleep the rest of the night.
Serenity got up a few more times that night. The next
time she woke up to the sound of her baby crying it sounded
much farther away, like she was not in the room with Serenity.
Serenity shot up instantly and looked over to an empty crib.
She screamed, jumped up, and ran into the living room where
she saw Wesley feeding Serena. "Oh Wesley," she said in relief.
"Good morning, or should I say afternoon honey?"
Serenity looked at the clock. "Good afternoon," she
said, distracted. The clock said 3:30. She had slept eight
hours.
"I got up at 8:00, and I came to get the baby from
our room where you were sleeping. It was so kind of you to
give me the night off," he said. "Thought I would repay you
and give you the morning off in return."
"Oh Wesley, you never owe me anything. I got more
sleep than you did, and plus you missed your afternoon nap.
Wesley nodded. "I know I do not owe you darling. I
wanted to do this though all right? We have plenty of time for
sleep now that we have our breaks from work."
Serenity smiled. "That is right," she said happily.
"I have a surprise for you darling."
"What is it?" she asked, sitting down with her cup of
hot tea.
Wesley smiled and handed her a brochure of the nearby
beach they had stayed at for their honeymoon. "What is this?"
she asked.
"I thought we could go back for this Christmas and New
Year's..." Wesley began.
Serenity interrupted, "Oh my gosh! Wesley you are the
best!!!" She hugged him tightly in excitement. "This will be a
great break and so much fun."
"I know," Wesley said, smiling in happiness.
They did enjoy that Christmas and New Year's. They both
got plenty of sleep and rest on the beach near the calming,
tranquil ocean. They also enjoyed dipping into the water and
sitting at the water's edge with Serena who giggled happily
when the water came up onto the sand and tickled her feet.
Serenity lay on her lounge chair with Serena next to
her in the stroller and Wesley next to her lying out on his
lounge chair on the golden sand. She looked out past the golden
grains of sand to the tranquil, sparkling blue ocean and the
small calm waves going in andout, in and out gently underneath
the soft, light blue sky. She smiled softly at a few small
wisps of white clouds.
For Christmas they still got and decorated a Christmas
tree with ornaments and ribbon and tinsel. They put out
stockings for Santa Claus as well as milk and cookies, and
they enjoyed all the flickering lights, bubble lights, and
colored lights as well as the cheerful holiday music.
New Year's Eve was of course a big celebration with the
streamers, confetti, and sparkling cider. Wesley loved to pick
up the now six month year old Serena and hold her up, spinning
around slowly and gently. Serena would giggle and coo, and the
place would be ringing with their laughter. It was bliss, and
they were in their own paradise together.
A few days after returning home from the vacation at the
beach and before returning to work, Serenity and Wesley were on
the couch watching television together. When suddenly Serena, who
was on the floor right below them with a new toy, managed to get
up on her hands and knees. "Oh Wesley look," Serenity said in
excitement.
"I see, I see," he said happily. "Although she is a
little late."
"Our baby always needs her time, but she gets everything
done well when she gets to it dearest."
Wesley smiled. "You are right honey."
Serenity showed up early for her training at the bank.
She was a bank clerk. When she returned home from work, she was
able to enjoy an extra hour of sleep thankfully.
After a couple of weeks, they got the idea of how the
schedule would work with another extra day for Wesley to sleep
and an extra hour of sleep every night for Serenity. They were
both feeling considerably better and more rested. It also helped
that by now Serena had been sleeping for longer periods of time
before waking up and crying. Serenity had noticed that her
daughter seemed very insecure and cried a lot. She was very
emotional and needed a lot of nurturing. Luckily both Serenity
and Wesley were good nurturers and enjoyed taking care of Serena.
Serenity was noticing improvements in Serena's insecurity and
that her baby was crying less. She was so glad theywere laying a
good foundation for her precious daughter.
At the end of January, Wesley and Serenity were enjoying
their day off playing a card game while Serena was playing with
her stuffed animals on the floor. One of them was away from the
pile, and she got on her hands and knees. Serenity looked down
and knew instinctively as well as from weeks of this happening
that Serena would be reaching for the stuffed animal, so
Serenity got up to get it. Wesley stopped her. "What is it?"
Serenity asked, turning to look at him for a second.
"Look," he said.
She looked back toward Serena, and she saw that Serena
was slowly crawling to the stuffed animal. She was taking awhile
and started crying halfway there. Serenity instinctively bent
down to reach for her.
"Wait," Wesley said, holding her arm gently.
"Wesley, she is crying."
"I know, but just give her a minute to try to figure it
out and get there on her own."
"I cannot stand the sound Wesley," Serenity said in
desperation. He let go of her arm.
"Serenity, calm down honey." He embraced her. "It is
all right. I am sorry. Go if you want. I was just thinking we
could give her a minute. If she does not figure it out, we will
help her out of course darling. I know you do not like the sound.
I do not either. I care for her as much as you do, but I want to
give her a chance to figure these things out on her own."
Serenity's eyes softened. "All right, just a minute,"
she said.
"Right," Wesley agreed.
Serena crawled the rest of the way and picked up the
stuffed animal happily. She started giggling and cooing.
Serenity smiled and giggled too, sitting down on the floor next
to her daughter. "Good job Serena. I am soooo proud of you my
precious daughter. Love you so much," and she kissed her
daughter softly on the forehead.
Wesley sat down next to them. "Love you both so much,"
he said, kissing his daughter on the forehead and his wife on
the cheek affectionately.
Serenity smiled happily.
Serena was over seven months now, and it was a snowy
Valentine's Day. Wesley got off of work and came home that
afternoon. "I have a surprise for you Serenity," he said
happily. She had the day off from work.
She came out of the kitchen with delicious smelling
cookies she had just baked for him. "What is it dearest?" she
asked, handing him a cookie.
He looked at her happily. "Oh yum. Thank you for baking
these delicious morsels," he said. She smiled and giggled. They
sat down. "I found out something we have been missing out on
this entire time. I was telling Roger how I was not sure what
we could do for Valentine's Day to make it special stuck inside
with the baby, and he explained something to me about Earth
customs. Apparently, we can pay a person to do what is called
baby-sit for our daughter. This means the person would look
after the baby for a few hours if we wanted, and we pay them
for the service. Apparently it is a common practice here on
Earth. It would not be like leaving our baby in daycare all
day. It is just to give us a few hours of a break every once in
awhile."
Serenity smiled. "Oh that is wonderful. I suppose that
it would be all right if we found someone we felt safe enough
with sometime, but that will take time. I do not think we should
do that this Valentine's Day. Perhaps for another holiday and
for Valentine's Day next year of course."
Wesley nodded. "I found someone I feel safe looking
after her, and I think you will feel safe with her looking after
Serena too. She should be here in a few minutes."
"Who is it?"
"Leslie."
"Oh darling, that is wonderful. Oh thank you," she
embraced him. "Leslie would be wonderful."
"I am so glad. I got us reservations at that nice
restaurant we ate out at after my first wages here on Earth. Do
you remember it?"
"Oh Wesley, of course I remember it dearest."
"I am so glad darling."
So they enjoyed a night out at the restaurant, and they
both enjoyed the peaceful stroll home in one another's arms
without the distraction of the baby. Of course Serenity could
not help worrying some about Serena and Leslie though, and when
they got to the apartment, she rushed in and saw Leslie holding
Serena and rocking her. "She was crying, but I think she is all
right now," Leslie said simply.
Serenity nodded and gently took Serena from Leslie's
hands. "Thank you so much for helping us out Leslie. It is so
kind of you."
Leslie smiled. "No problem. Didn't have anything better
to do sadly."
"Oh Leslie, you will find someone eventually. I know
it. Try to have patience. I know how hard that is. These things
take time sometimes."
"Oh I know Serenity. I know. Thanks! I will see you
later."
"Wait, here is your paycheck," Wesley said as he walked
into the room.
"Oh all right. Thanks. Take care you two."
"Take care Leslie," Serenity said.
"See you soon," Wesley added.
It was a beautiful spring morning in March, and Serena
was nearly nine months old. Serenity and Wesley were taking
turns pushing the stroller with Serena in it through the park
on this cheerful morning. The birds were chirping, and Wesley
and Serenity were smiling at each other, drinking in each
other's presence. They were both so busy, but on these mornings
they both had off they often did go for a stroll through the
park now that it was spring. Serenity loved to look at Wesley.
He still brought such contentment and peace to her heart and
soul that she felt like the luckiest person alive to be with
him. Wesley still felt such joy and serenity from being with
Serenity as well, so he would often sneak in side glances at
her and raise his eyebrow or wink at her. Serenity would
giggle. "You are so silly," she would say.
Wesley chuckled, and held her close, looking into her
faint purple eyes. "I love you Serenity."
"I love you too Wesley," she said joyfully.
They enjoyed looking at the beautiful pink cherry
blossoms on the trees and the fluffy white clouds in the light
blue sky. The soundsof birds chirping and insects humming were
music to their ears. They both enjoyed the feel of the fresh
green grass under their feet, so they would take off their
sandals and run through it some. People would often look at
them strangely, but neither one cared. They were living life.
There was a fountain toward the end of the park away from their
apartment. They often walked there and sat down for awhile.
Today they did again. The beautiful clear water spurted down
into the pool of water with lots of coins people had tossed in
while making wishes. Serenity thought it was so magical and
absolutely loved it. She felt like it was familiar somehow, but
she could not ever quite determine where that feeling of
familiarity came from. When they sat down today, Serenity
splashed Wesley.
"Hey!" he exclaimed. Then he got a mock evil grin on
his face, and he cupped his hands together, allowing the water
to run into it. Then he dumped it on Serenity's head. She
looked at him in shock and began splashing large amounts of
water onto him. The water war continued escalating, and by the
time they were done they were both gasping for air and soaking
wet. Not to mention they were both getting quite a few strange
stares from people. They just smiled sheepishly and returned
home with Serena who was happy and giggling all day with them.
April Fool's Day was a fun day for everyone too.
Neither Serenity nor Wesley played any pranks or jokes on one
another. They spent the day laughing and joyful though. They
enjoyed sitting on the floor and being with Serena and one
another. Wesley would lift up Serena's arms and wave them up
and down while Serena giggled happily. Serenity smiled as
Wesley gently and carefully lifted Serena up in the air and
pretended she was slowly flying. Serena's beautiful baby face
lighted up in the most innocent, joyful smile. Her small,
adorable giggle made Serenity feel all warm and loved by her
young daughter inside.
It was a sunny day in mid-May as Serenity was getting
ready for work, and Wesley was attempting to get up from his
nap. Serenity ran into the bedroom to get a nice new gold
necklace she had bought to wear to work. "Have a good day at
work," Wesley mumbled, looking up but still in bed. She nodded.
When she ran back into the kitchen where she had very
briefly left Serena, she saw Serena struggling to get out of
her chair where Serenity had been feeding her. Serenity lifted
her baby up out of the chair and gently placed her on the
ground. "There you go precious," she said softly.
Serena cooed, and she got on her knees. Then she began
struggling to get up higher. Serenity realized she was trying
to stand up on her own. "Wesley, get up!" she screamed. Serena
began crying. "Oh no, it is all right Serena baby. Hush,
hush," she said softly, humming to Serena and kneeling beside
her. Serena quickly quieted down and started cooing and
struggling to stand up again.
Wesley rushed in. "What is it?" he asked, rubbing his
tired eyes.
Serenity did not answer, but Wesley saw for himself as
his baby girl started standing up slowly on her own. "Oh
Serena," Serenity said, rushing to her baby and holding her.
"I am sooo proud of you precious, so proud." She began rocking
her baby and humming.
Wesley smiled happily and said, "I am so proud too.
What a good job you did standing all on your own precious
daughter." He hugged her gently, and then lifted her up in the
air. Serena giggled happily. Serenity smiled happily.
"Oh, I have to go," Serenity realized.
"Take care dearest," Wesley said quietly, picking up
Serena and walking with her to the door. He gave her a quick
peck on the cheek as she rushed out the door.
Serenity and Serena's birthdays snuck up on the family
quickly, and when Serenity got up that morning that she had
off, but Wesley did not, she ended up letting herself go back
to sleep with the baby crib right beside her bed. She woke up
again around noon and enjoyed sleeping late as well as feeling
amazed Serena had let her sleep so long. She sighed and wiggled
under the covers, enjoying the feel of waking up at noon. Soon
Serena was crying though, and she got up slowly, stretching out
into a comfortable position and getting up. She lifted Serena
up carefully and said, "Happy birthday precious." She hummed to
her while she changed her diaper and clothes. Then she went
into the kitchen with Serena and fed her. Serena quieted down
and smiled and cooed happily. Serenity smiled and fixed herself
some lasagna. She ate it in the living room while Serena
enjoyed her toys on the soft living room carpet. Serenity held
her in her lap for awhile after she was done eating. When
Wesley returned home, he smiled at the loving, comfortable
picture they created and sat down beside them.
"Happy Birthday precious," he said, kissing Serena
softly on the forehead. Then he looked at Serenity, leaned over,
and kissed her fully on the mouth. She smiled. "Happy Birthday
to you too dearest," he said joyfully.
Serenity smiled. "Thank you dearest."
"You are 20 years old Serenity. It is time to celebrate.
You are an adult with me yay!"
Serenity giggled. "Our baby is a year old."
"Oh, I know. I am so excited!"
Serena smiled, sensing they were happy and talking about
her as they looked at her happily.
"Here is your present precious," he said, handing a
small wrapped gift to Serena. Serena held it and turned it
around, cooing softly, and then trying to put it in her mouth.
Serenity giggled. "Here let me help you with that
precious," she said, glaring at Wesley as a joke.
Wesley opened his eyes wide. "Well, what did I do to
deserve that? I guess someone does not want their gift."
Serenity laughed. "Oh Wesley, I was just joking."
"Sure you were," Wesley said.
Serenity smiled and unwrapped Serena's gift, tearing
off the paper everywhere. Wesley chuckled. "What? It is no fun
unwrapping it carefully. Wrapping paper is meant to be
destroyed," Serenity said happily.
Wesley chuckled. "I love you so much darling."
"I love you so much too honey," she said, looking into
his eyes.
"Well, here is your gift," he said as he handed it to
her after Serena had unwrapped her new toy.
Serenity smiled and tore into the gift like a ravenous
animal. She smiled in joy when she saw the back massager. "Oh
Wesley, thank you. It is perfect," she said, embracing him.
Wesley smiled. "I am glad. I thought it could help you
with your stress."
"And I am sure there was no ulterior motive, like an
occasional back massage for you when you are under stress?"
Serenity asked, teasing.
"Oh no, of course not," Wesley said. "However, if you,
as the kind wife you are, wanted to offer you tired husband a
back massage on a stressful day, it would not be refused," he
added.
Serenity laughed. "You trickster you."
Wesley laughed too. They ate cake, enjoyed the time with
Serena, and went to bed early.
The next day Wesley mentioned that she should have been
walking by now, and Serenity reassured him that Serena would get
it done in her own time. "We should not pressure her; just give
her the time she needs. She will get there, and it will be
amazing," she reassured him.
"How can you be so calm?" he said worriedly.
"The roles do seem to be reversed do they not? You are
always the calm one, but when it comes to your child you get so
nervous. I understand. She means so much to you." Wesley nodded
his head in agreement. "However, I know what it is like to be
pushed into something too soon. Believe me. She will get there
in her own time, and she will not be any worse off than any other
child. I am sure of it."
Wesley smiled. "I will try not to. I am so glad you have
such strong convictions about this. It helps me. Thank you
honey." He kissed her on the cheek and headed out the door for
work.
It was only a few days later when Serenity and Wesley
were sitting in the living room with Serena, helping her stand,
that Serenity went over to the television to get one of Serena's
toys off of it she had placed up there earlier. Serena cooed and
started to slowly take unsteady steps toward Serenity. Serenity
turned around when she heard Wesley's gasp and saw her child
slowly walking toward her unsteadily. She started to help her,
but Wesley looked at her to remind her to let their child do it
on her own if possible. Serenity nodded and sat down with her
arms outstretched toward Serena. Serena got there eventually and
fell into Serenity's outstretched arms. Giggling and smiling
happily as Serenity rocked with her and hummed, congratulated
her, and gaveher the toy she had been wanting. Although Serena
had said a few words here and there she amazed them again by
actually saying mama to Serenity, showing that she actually
recognized Serenity as her mother. Serenity smiled happily and
as Wesley smiled and came downon the floor to sit with them, she
said, "Dada." He smiled happily too.
Once every three months there was a fireworks show at
night, and Wesley and Serenity wanted to try to go to one now.
This one was on July 10, and they had planned for awhile to go
to the show that night. They both had the day off, and when
Serenity came home from a shopping trip that morning to see
Wesley feeding Serena, she smiled at the picture and walked up to
Wesley. "Wesley you are never going to believe what I found," she
said in excitement."
"What is it?" Wesley asked.
"There are flyers everywhere about the one year
anniversary celebration of the new rulers of Earth, King Damion
and Queen Darla, coming up in a little over six months.
"Ah, I see. What is your point? You want to go to this?"
"Well, perhaps. More importantly, Darla is married now.
That means her parents cannot control her. We can go there and
see her. I bet she has contact information for Miriam who I am
sure must still be in contact with Lune if Darla is not."
Wesley smiled happily. "Oh this is wonderful news
darling. Finally you can get in contact with them again."
"Oh my gosh. I have so much to tell them all. We just
have to find the palace. Can we go today please? I want to see
her right away and hear about how she is doing."
"We have the fireworks tonight dearest, remember?"
"Yes, I know. We will make sure to be back in time.
Please Wesley, please. This is so important to me."
"Dearest I am not stopping you. You do not need my
permission to go."
"Oh I know that, but I wanted you and Serena to come
too."
"Oh, I see. All right, why not? Then I can make sure
we get back in time for the fireworks too."
"What are you saying? That I cannot handle that
responsibility myself?" Serenity asked.
"No silly," Wesley said. "Just an observation. Do you
want to go now?"
"Well, let us look up where she lives and get
directions first."
Wesley nodded as Serenity went to look up the
information.
When they arrived at the palace, they were having such
a difficult time getting in. They could not actually tell the
guards who they were. They pretended to be ambassadors for the
Moon Kingdom, but the guards at the gate saw through that right
away. So instead Serenity said, "will you please ask Darla to
come to the gate? I know she will recognize me as a friend from
long ago. You can tell her my name is Samantha, but tell her that
she will not recognize the name, just my face. If she could simply
come out here. It is so important."
"All right," one of the guards gave in.
"I do not think this is wise," the other guard said
cautiously.
"Well, I guess that is for Queen Darla to decide," the
first guard shot back.
The second guard nodded in agreement as the first guard
went into the palace. Wesley and Serenity squirmed under his harsh
gaze. It reminded Serenity of her days back in the Moon Kingdom
and brought up some old feelings she really did not like, but she
managed to get through it. All the time she was holding Serena
near and holding Wesley's hand tightly.
Several minutes later Darla emerged with the guard and
walked toward them. She looked at Samantha and nodded. "Let her
in. She is an old friend."
As they all walked toward wherever Darla was leading
them, Darla said, "it has been so long since anyone has heard
from you. How are you Serenity?"
"I am doing so well. Wesley and I have a child, Serena.
See," she said.
Darla looked at Serena and smiled some. "She is a
beautiful child. I am pregnant myself," she said, rubbing her
bulging belly.
"Oh, how exciting," Serena said.
"Yes, it will be my second child," Darla explained. My
first boy is nearly four now.
"Oh my, how exciting. You must have had him shortly
after I left."
"Yes, it happened when Damion and I heard of our
engagement to be married at the time of my 20th birthday. The
time when all princesses Traditionally do," she emphasized
traditionally. "We did sleep together, not planning to have a
baby until after we were married,but these things happen of
course."
"Yes I suppose so," Serenity said, going in to embrace
her friend. Darla hugged her back but reluctantly Serenity
noticed. *She seems so distant.*
A man with dark midnight blue hair that curled around
his ears and dark black eyes approached them. He was solid and
distant, and Serenity recognized him as the top guard of Prince
Alan from Uranus. She curtseyed, not sure exactly what the
tradition was between a princess and a king. He frowned but did
not say anything. Darla grimaced. "So you are here on Earth," she
said carefully.
Serenity nodded.
"Yes, we have a nice apartment several miles away near
the health club," Wesley said. "You should really come visit us
sometime."
"Oh yes, of course," Darla said strangely, looking at her
husband strangely. He nodded his head, but his face remained
emotionless like a cold slab of stone.
"Well, we are going to the fireworks show tonight, so we
really must be going," Serenity said. She was trying to back out
because she was feeling so uncomfortable. "You think you could
get us in contact with Miriam again?" she asked.
"I think we could arrange that," Darla said.
"Oh, thank you. That is so wonderful. We will see you
soon right?"
"Yes, of course," Darla answered.
"Until next time, take good care my friend."
Darla grimaced at the mention of friend and nodded her
head. "You too," she simply answered.
They did enjoy the fireworks that night with Serena
although she was scared by the loud sounds as they feared, so they
did not stay long. They walked home quietly through the park.
Serenity felt so excited at the thought of finally hearing from
Miriam and Lune, but she also felt uneasy too for some reason she
could not seem to pinpoint. Serenity and Wesley had begun to allow
Serena to sleep in the room across from them but with the baby
monitor still right next to their bed of course. They were
enjoying getting closer to a full night's sleep now, and they were
feeling more rested in general. Serenity was enjoying these times
greatly as was Wesley, and she could not wait to include Miriam,
Darla, and Lune in them.
The next morning Wesley and Serenity took Serena out for
a morning stroll through the park. While they were in the park,
walking along the sidewalk and admiring the beautiful summer
flowers and trees, a little boy with shiny black hair walked up
to them. Serenity could not figure out why he looked so familiar.
He walked up to Serena and put his finger out. "Hi," he said.
Serenity giggled.
"That is the boy from before," Wesley said.
Serena giggled and put her hand around his finger,
smiling. Her whole face seemed to be lit up with joy.
Serenity smiled as the boy walked away again. "What boy
from when? Why does he seem so familiar?" Serenity wondered out
loud.
"He should. About a year ago we ran into him on our two
month anniversary. He liked Serena then too I remember."
Serenity smiled. "Ah yes, how adorable."
Wesley nodded his head in agreement. "I do wonder about
him though."
"Oh, our three year anniversary is coming up. How
exciting," Serenity interjected happily. "What should we do for
it?"
"What do you want to do dearest?"
"Oh goodness. I do not know."
"Me neither. Let us just go with the flow. We can do
whatever comes to our mind that day."
Serenity smiled. "That is a good idea." They embraced and
walked the rest of the way home in contentment.
When they got back to the apartment, Wesley went right in
while Serenity took Serena out of the stroller and put Serena's
stroller out by the door. She entered holding Serena and
immediately felt something was wrong. The door slammed shut
behind her, and she saw near the archway and the hall four guards
holding Wesley down.
"WESLEY," she screamed.
A figure shimmered in front of her. It was the image of
her mother. "Wesley is going to prison for his crimes daughter.
As should you, but you will be returning where you belong. You
will punished severely for your insolent behavior."
Serenity's mouth opened in fear, and she instinctively
held Serena nearer and clung onto her tighter.
"So that is the devil child that came from him," Queen
Selenity said angrily, looking quickly at Wesley. "I suppose we
will have to figure out something else with her. Now, you are
coming home."
"NOOOOOOOOOOOOO," Wesley screamed, seeing his love
fading away with Queen Selenity.
To Be Continued...
It was a few days into July when they returned home from the
hospital with Serena. Her beautiful white, silver, and pink room was
set up in the room across the hall, but Serenity wanted to keep the
baby in her room until she was older. Thus the crib was set up in
the room with Wesley and Serenity. When Serenity came home, she
found the next half of her belated birthday present. It was one
large waterbed for her and Wesley. "Oh Wesley! It is gorgeous.
Thank you darling," and she kissed him briefly while laying the
baby down gently and carefully in the crib. The crib had beautiful
white and pink lace around it that Wesley had surprised her by
buying and placing around the crib while she was in the hospital.
"Oh you are just full of pleasant surprises love, are you not?"
Serenity asked joyfully.
Wesley smiled. "I guess I am. I just wanted to surprise you
so badly."
"It is beautiful. Thank you darling."
"You are welcome dearest."
That night they took turns getting up for the baby. They had
agreed the first time she cried, Serenity would get up, the second
time Wesley would get up, and so on throughout the night. However,
the next night Wesley would go first, and the next night Serenity
would be first again. Thus they established a pattern from the
beginning to prevent any future arguments. They also agreed ahead
of time that in the event that one of them was to become sick the
other would get up the whole night to take care of the baby for all
the nights until the sick person felt considerably better.
On July 30, they celebrated with multi colored confetti and
sparkly streamers throughout the living room. They were celebrating
having this wonderful child in their lives for one month.
"She is so wonderful is she not dearest?" Serenity asked.
Wesley nodded happily. "She amazes me. She is so curious
about everything. The smallest thing can make her so upset which
pierces my heart with sadness, but then the smallest thing can bring
a smile to her face and happiness surges through my body. Plus she
is so adorable. Look at those light baby blue eyes and that short,
curly golden blond hair. Though I do not know where the curly blond
hair comes from."
"Me neither," Serenity admitted. "Although my mother did
have curly hair, but the person she got the blond hair from eludes
me as well.
"Ah well, I do not understand that study of genetics, so
perhaps she does not have to have a relative with that color to
have it herself."
"I am not sure either," Serenity admitted. "Whether it is
possible or not, she is still a miracle to me." She smiled in bliss
as the baby cooed. She cooed with the baby, and Wesley smiled in
contentment and bliss as well.
Wesley put his arms around Serenity, gently embracing her.
Serenity smiled some. "Oh Wesley, I am so happy."
"Me too darling."
"We must be the luckiest parents in the world. The luckiest
people in the world really," Serenity said happily.
Wesley smiled and hugged her, running his fingers through
her hair. "I think we are dearest. I truly think we are."
She turned around in his arms and raised up on her heels
while kissing him passionately on the lips.
Wesley smiled and succumbed to his desires until the baby
cried out. Wesley let go, and Serenity ran to the crib immediately.
"So much for that." Wesley laughed.
"Awww, what is wrong Serena?" she asked her daughter in
concern.
At the beginning of August Wesley came home to find
Serenity on the couch feeding Serena. "Hello dearest," he said
happily.
Serenity looked up. "Oh hello darling. Welcome home. How
was your day at work?"
"Enjoyable more or less. I found out some really exciting
news," he said with shining eyes, sitting next to his wife and
daughter on the white couch.
Serenity turned to her husband and smiled. "I cannot wait
to hear about it. Tell me please darling. I love you," she added,
kissing him softly on the cheek.
He kissed her softly as well on the cheek and said, "I
got a promotion!"
Serenity's eyes widened, and she smiled in excitement.
"That is wonderful darling."
"Yes, I am manager of the health club now, and that means
an increase in pay as well."
"Oh I am so glad dearest. You know I was thinking about
our schedules when I have to go back to work in October. I really
want Serena to simply be taken care of by us. I do not want to
put her in one of these Earth daycares."
"Oh really? Well, all right, I can understand and agree
with that, but can we possibly rearrange our schedules so that
one of us is always here with her?"
Serenity nodded her head. "Yes, I think so. Now that
you are manager, can you not rearrange your hours?"
"I think I should at least wait until I have been
manager a month or two. I will rearrange it in October, just
before you return to work, but I will make sure ahead of time
that I can rearrange the schedule in October."
Serenity smiled. "Oh that is wonderful darling. I was
thinking you could work in the morning while I stay with
Serenity, and I will work in the late afternoon through night.
Unfortunately, I think we will both have to cut our hours down
to eight instead of ten, but I think you can remain with six days
a week while I work five days a week."
Wesley nodded. "Sounds good to me. You know I am a
morning person."
"And you know I am not, so it works well for us both,"
Serenity said happily.
Wesley smiled. "I am glad."
"Me too darling."
So, the next day Serenity called up the bookstore and
had a conversation with the manager, Barbara, about her hours.
She got them cut down to eight hours, and locked into a set
schedule from 3 p.m. to 12 p.m. Sunday through Wednesday and
Friday. "Thank you so much Barbara. I really appreciate this.
Wesley and I really do not want to put Serena in daycare."
"I understand Serenity. You are such a good, hard
worker that we do not want to lose you. We always give our older,
good employees the choice of having the non-flexible schedule.
Also, I want you to know that when you return, we have given
you a one dollar an hour raise in your salary because you have
been with us so long and done such wonderful work."
Serenity gasped. "Oh Barbara, how can I ever thank you?"
Barbara laughed. "No need to. Just keep working hard. I
have to go now. Take care Serenity. See you at the end of
October."
"Right," Serenity said, hanging up the phone.
Their two year anniversary was spent happily taking a
stroll through the park with Serena in her stroller. Serenity
and Wesley held hands as Serenity pushed the stroller with her
other arm. "Oh look at that beautiful weeping willow tree,"
Serenity said softly. Wesley pulled gently on her arm, and she
turned the stroller towards the grass as they went under the
willow tree. She turned around for a minute, and they enjoyed
embracing each other and looking into one another's eyes. A
little boy with short, shiny black hair and sparkling blue eyes
walked up to the stroller as Serenity was turning back around
to push the stroller back on the path in order to resume their
stroll through the park. He looked into the stroller curiously.
"Why hello there," Serenity said kindly. "Who are you?"
The little boy shrugged. "I am three," he said.
Wesley and Serenity looked at one another and laughed
in amusement. Then Serenity turned back to him and saw him
looking into the stroller at Serena. Serena giggled and grabbed
one of his small fingers. He smiled. "Awww," Serenity said.
"You should get back to your parents. Where are they?"
Wesley asked kindly.
"Oh, right around the corner. I will go," the boy said,
quickly running off. They turned to each other and chuckled.
"He is so adorable," Serenity said.
"Yes he is," Wesley agreed, smiling at her. They
finished their walk through the park, and they enjoyed a night
of card games and cake at home.
Serenity had a celebration planned for Wesley when he
came home on his 22nd birthday late that September evening. As
he entered the apartment, confetti and tinsel dropped down on
him. He saw a huge banner across the archway leading into the
kitchen saying Happy 22nd Birthday Wesley in huge, bold silver
letters. He saw streamers of all colors throughout the
apartment. There were purple and green, gold and silver, yellow
and orange, red and teal, indigo and blue, and pink and white
streamers. Wesley smiled and ran to his darling in excitement,
wrapping his arms around her and hugging her close. Serenity
smiled and giggled in happiness. "Happy birthday Wesley," she
said.
"Oh, thank you Serenity. It is so much though."
"Aww...it is mostly for Serena," she lied.
"Oh just admit it, you love having her to blame all
your inner child desires on."
Serenity chuckled. "You are right. I never got to have
this much fun as a kid, so I am making up for it now."
Wesley smiled. "Although I had a good childhood, I
never got to be truly innocent or enjoy celebrations like
this," he admitted. "It means so much to me Serenity."
"I know dearest. I am so glad. I want your birthday to
be so special."
"Oh Serenity, any birthday I have with you is always
special," he said compassionately.
Serenity smiled and led him into the kitchen. There
was a huge cake. "I spent all day making it. I got a book on
it and everything. I know it is not perfect, but I think I did
pretty darn good..."
Wesley interrupted her. "It is magnificent," he said
in astonishment.
"Oh what, you did not think I could do something
well?" Serenity asked, teasing him.
"Oh darling, I know how capable and talented you are.
I am just admiring all the intricate flowers and designs. Wow
this will take forever to eat. Thank you honey."
Serenity smiled. "It is so amazing it warrants a new
nickname? Wow I did do well," she teased again.
Wesley smiled happily. "So let us dig in," he said in
excitement.
"Oh wait a minute. Here is your gift. Unwrap it first,
please," Serenity requested.
"Oh the torture. That chocolate cake beckons me
dearest Serenity, but all right." He tore into the wrapping
paper, unwrapping a gift card to the nearest work out store.
"I did not know the best equipment to buy, or what you
like the most," Serenity said. "So, I simply got you the gift
card. I hope that you get to pick out what you like," she said
in excitement.
"Oh Serenity," he said gratefully. "Thank you honey,"
he said, embracing her.
"Aww thank you too honey. Now to the cake," she said
in excitement. They ran and tore into the cake, stuffing it
into their faces happily.
It was in the middle of October that Wesley came home
announcing he had rearranged his schedule so that he worked
from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sunday through Friday. With his
increase in pay and her small increase in pay, the hours they
cut out did not affect their pay as greatly though it still
was a decrease in the amount they had extra each month, but
they both agreed they did not need the money and that it was
much more worthwhile to spend that time with precious Serena.
"Oh I am so glad you got your schedule rearranged
honey," Serenity said to Wesley that evening.
"I know. You start the day before Halloween do you
not?"
"Yes darling, but I do not work on Halloween. We can
go door to door with Serena in a stroller. I am sure that we
could get so much candy."
"Serenity, the holiday is for children not babies."
"Awww, but now we have an excuse to get candy,"
Serenity whined.
Wesley chuckled. "Oh all right. I suppose we could
try taking Serena to a few houses and getting some candy."
"Oh thank you honey."
"You are welcome dearest," and he kissed her on the
cheek before going to the bathroom to take a shower.
Just as he was starting the shower, he heard Serenity
yell for him to come back into the living room. She was
squealing with delight, and Wesley looked to see Serena
rolling over from her back onto her stomach and then back
onto her back again. Wesley smiled. "Oh, how adorable."
Serenity was still squealing. Finally she stopped and
ran up and jumped into Wesley's arms. "She is so precious is
she not?"
Wesley smiled and nodded his head in agreement. "Yes,
so precious. Just like her mother."
Serenity smiled and embraced him.
On Halloween they put four month year old Serena in a
small, comfy bunny costume. Serenity wore a big bunny costume,
and Wesley wore a big bunny costume too. Serenity laughed.
"You are so silly dearest."
Wesley smiled and chuckled. "Yeah, I know."
They did get some candy as well as some strange looks.
Serenity just glared at those people while Wesley chuckled.
One lady smiled and tickled Serena. Serenity smiled.
"She is beautiful," the lady said.
Serenity nodded. "Yes, she is. Thank you."
That night they plopped down in exhaustion on the
couch. "I forgot to ask you. How was your first day back at
work yesterday?" Wesley asked.
"Exhausting," Serenity admitted, "but nice to be
back."
Wesley smiled. "Well at least we discovered that the
schedule works."
Serenity pulled her raincoat's hood over her head as
she ran through the rain with her arms outstretched. She was
enjoying the smell and exhilarating feeling from the fresh
falling rain. She ran up to the door to her apartment and
opened it after shaking off her raincoat.
Wesley turned around and smiled at her. "Welcome
home honey," he said, embracing her.
She plopped down on the couch, lying out. "I am so
exhausted." She sighed. "Nice rain though," she added.
"Yes, it is enjoyable," Wesley agreed. "Though
somewhat frightening to see nature with such power."
"Oh, you are so silly Wesley."
He sat down beside her and sighed, lying out with
her. "I am exhausted too. Although I did just take a half
hour nap."
"Oh well then quit complaining," Serenity said,
teasing. Wesley laughed. "Where is Serena?" Serenity asked,
concerned.
"It is after midnight dearest. She is sleeping."
"Oh darn," Serenity said. "If she has been sleeping
now that means she will be up soon."
"Do not worry about that. Just go to sleep dearest.
I got a few hours of sleep in all while you were at work,
so it is your turn. I look after her at night. You know
that."
"I know," Serenity sighed in relief. "Thank you,
but sometimes I feel it is unfair for you. I mean you only
get to rest at certain intervals while the baby sleeps
between 7 p.m. and 12 p.m., and if she cries you have to
get up. I get to sleep from 12:30 or 1 a.m. to 5:30 a.m.
every morning. At least I get a full four and a half to
five hours straight. You get maybe two or three hours while
I am at work. Those hours are not even straight though."
"Well, I also get an hour from 2:30 p.m. to 3:30
p.m. straight before you go to work."
"That is the only time you are assured to not be
woken up by the baby though, and it is only an hour."
"I get to sleep seven hours on Thursday."
"That is true. I get that amount of sleep during
that night though."
Wesley nodded. "Thursdays and Saturdays are just
good for us both." Serenity nodded in agreement.
"Although I think that Saturdays are much better.
On Thursday we still only get to spend an hour together.
The rest of the time is spent catching up on sleep. At least
on Saturday we can each sleep eight hours and still get
eight hours together."
Wesley agreed. "Definitely. I enjoy that time we get
together from 5 p.m. to 1 a.m. Saturday night so much."
"Yes, I do too," Serenity said. She appeared lost in
thought.
"What are you thinking Serenity?" Wesley asked
quietly.
"It is just that...I mean...look at us. We are
exhausted. Exhausted Wesley," she said in exasperation. "I
honestly do not know how much longer we can keep this up. It
has not even been a month. We surely cannot continue this
throughout the years."
Wesley sighed and embraced her. "I understand what
you are saying, but what can we do? Unless you are
reconsidering the decision about daycare."
"No, no. I know. I do not know what we can do. You
are right. I am sorry. I just, I am tired. I am going to go
to bed all right."
"All right Serenity. Goodnight dearest."
"Goodnight honey," and she kissed him on the cheek.
It was the middle of that month while sitting at the
kitchen table enjoying that Saturday evening dinner that
Serenity said. "It is almost time to feed Serena. I think
she is ready for solid baby foods. The book I have said she
should have been ready a couple of weeks ago, but I put it
off because I did not want to rush things."
Wesley nodded. "Oh can I feed her then?" he asked,
excited to finally get the chance to feed Serena.
Serenity nodded. "All right. Go ahead darling."
Wesley sat Serena up on her chair, and he put the
spoon up to her mouth. Serena began bawling, a devastating
sound. Wesley jumped back and covered his ears. "Ughhh, not
again. What did I do this time?" Wesley asked in
exasperation.
"Oh for goodness sakes Wesley. She does not know what
to do. She has never eaten this way before."
"All right, so we have to teach her," Wesley said.
Serenity hit her head. "Naw, really?" she said asked
in sarcasm.
"Ha, ha," Wesley said.
It took awhile, but Serena got the idea eventually.
She did not seem happy though, obviously preferring
Serenity's milk. Thanksgiving was a feast for them. They
both got to enjoy the day together because they had slept
some before it though neither was anywhere near completely
rested. Serenity had long ago stopped complaining about it
which actually concerned Wesley more.
"Serenity, are you all right?"
"Yes honey, why?"
"It is just, you have those circles under your eyes.
You are so exhausted nowadays. I can tell."
Serenity nodded. "You are not getting nearly enough
rest yourself darling."
"True," Wesley agreed.
"Let us just eat and think about good things today,"
Serenity pleaded.
"All right," Wesley agreed again.
They ate their feast with Serena, and she got a new
kind of baby food as a special treat. "Do you realize Serena
is nearly five months old?" Serenity pointed out.
Wesley smiled. "Our little baby is growing up."
"Oh Wesley, no need to sound like that. She is still
a baby. It will be a long time before we say that phrase."
Wesley chuckled. "You are right dearest."
It was the beginning of December, and the first snow
of the year was lying on the ground outside. Serenity was
curled up with Wesley by the fire, and Serena was sleeping
for a little while. "Honey, I need to talk to you about
something serious," Wesley said cautiously.
"Oh Wesley, I do not think this is a good time. I am
so tired."
"Exactly, that is what I want to talk to you about.
This is very important please."
Serenity sighed and turned around a little to look
at his face. "Very well...what is it darling?"
"I do not think you can keep doing this. Frankly I
do not know how much longer I can keep doing this either,
but most of all I am concerned about you and want so badly
for you to get some more rest."
Serenity turned to him. "Please I do want to be here
for our baby, not put her in some daycare."
Wesley nodded. "I understand though I wish you would
rethink it, but I think ultimately you are probably right.
There must be some other solution. We need to think about
this."
Serenity thought for awhile. "I guess it would help
if we could lower our hours at work."
"We both already lowered our hours by two hours
though. I do not think as manager mine can go any lower. Do
you think you could get your manager to lower the hours you
work?"
Serenity thought about that for a minute. "No,
probably not again," she admitted. "I guess we are stuck
Wesley."
"Serenity, we will just have to think for awhile
about a solution because we cannot keep going on like this
no matter what honey."
"All right," Serenity nodded. "I agree."
A few days later, Serenity was at work when she
overheard some customers talking about the new bank opening
across the street, so at the end of her shift she went
across the street to see the bank. It had a sign on it
saying Now Hiring for the opening in January. Serenity
thought about it and decided to check this out and find out
if she could get better hours at this job tomorrow. So the
next day being her day off, she went with Serena in the
stroller to the bank and filled out an application. The next
day she was called in for an interview. She asked if she
could come in during the afternoon before working at the
bookstore, meaning Wesley would miss his afternoon nap. He
said that was worthwhile however, if she could get a new job
with better hours. At the interview, she was asked how long
she could work and how many days. That was when it hit her
that she would do so much better if she could work one less
day each week as well. So she requested seven hours a day,
four days a week. They had looked up her reference to the
quaint bookstore, and she came highly recommended. Thus,
they hired her for the middle of January and told her that
the pay would remain the same as what she had been getting
on her new salary at the bookstore. She told Wesley about
that that night, and they both agreed they would be fine
with a little less money coming in now. They could easily
get by, and the sleep was much more important at this point.
Serenity worked in the bookstore up until the winter
vacation, and then she respectfully quit after having
already explained earlier about the new job at the bank
in January.
When she came home after quitting her job, Serenity
plopped down and lay out on the couch in exhaustion. Wesley
came into the room, circles under his eyes. "Hey honey."
"Hi darling," she mumbled. He lay down beside her on
the couch, embracing her tiredly, and they both fell asleep
there. Luckily Wesley had brought the baby monitor in with him,
so they woke up to the sound of their child crying about half
an hour later.
Serenity rolled over and pushed him off the couch.
Wesley mumbled something and left to go take care of the baby,
but he returned and slept more with her for the next hour or
so again. This time though he put the baby monitor by
Serenity's ears. When Serena started bawling, she screamed and
jumped up at the loud sound in her ear. Wesley chuckled. "Your
turn," he said.
"Hey, you have nights," she complained.
"Yeah, but I missed my afternoon nap again remember?
So you do not get the night completely either."
"Oh, ughhhhhhh, fine. You are right," she mumbled,
getting up reluctantly. She rocked the baby gently in her
arms, and she hummed softly until the baby calmed down and
went back to sleep. Then she plopped down on the bed and went
to sleep deciding to get up whenever the baby cried again and
let Wesley sleep the rest of the night.
Serenity got up a few more times that night. The next
time she woke up to the sound of her baby crying it sounded
much farther away, like she was not in the room with Serenity.
Serenity shot up instantly and looked over to an empty crib.
She screamed, jumped up, and ran into the living room where
she saw Wesley feeding Serena. "Oh Wesley," she said in relief.
"Good morning, or should I say afternoon honey?"
Serenity looked at the clock. "Good afternoon," she
said, distracted. The clock said 3:30. She had slept eight
hours.
"I got up at 8:00, and I came to get the baby from
our room where you were sleeping. It was so kind of you to
give me the night off," he said. "Thought I would repay you
and give you the morning off in return."
"Oh Wesley, you never owe me anything. I got more
sleep than you did, and plus you missed your afternoon nap.
Wesley nodded. "I know I do not owe you darling. I
wanted to do this though all right? We have plenty of time for
sleep now that we have our breaks from work."
Serenity smiled. "That is right," she said happily.
"I have a surprise for you darling."
"What is it?" she asked, sitting down with her cup of
hot tea.
Wesley smiled and handed her a brochure of the nearby
beach they had stayed at for their honeymoon. "What is this?"
she asked.
"I thought we could go back for this Christmas and New
Year's..." Wesley began.
Serenity interrupted, "Oh my gosh! Wesley you are the
best!!!" She hugged him tightly in excitement. "This will be a
great break and so much fun."
"I know," Wesley said, smiling in happiness.
They did enjoy that Christmas and New Year's. They both
got plenty of sleep and rest on the beach near the calming,
tranquil ocean. They also enjoyed dipping into the water and
sitting at the water's edge with Serena who giggled happily
when the water came up onto the sand and tickled her feet.
Serenity lay on her lounge chair with Serena next to
her in the stroller and Wesley next to her lying out on his
lounge chair on the golden sand. She looked out past the golden
grains of sand to the tranquil, sparkling blue ocean and the
small calm waves going in andout, in and out gently underneath
the soft, light blue sky. She smiled softly at a few small
wisps of white clouds.
For Christmas they still got and decorated a Christmas
tree with ornaments and ribbon and tinsel. They put out
stockings for Santa Claus as well as milk and cookies, and
they enjoyed all the flickering lights, bubble lights, and
colored lights as well as the cheerful holiday music.
New Year's Eve was of course a big celebration with the
streamers, confetti, and sparkling cider. Wesley loved to pick
up the now six month year old Serena and hold her up, spinning
around slowly and gently. Serena would giggle and coo, and the
place would be ringing with their laughter. It was bliss, and
they were in their own paradise together.
A few days after returning home from the vacation at the
beach and before returning to work, Serenity and Wesley were on
the couch watching television together. When suddenly Serena, who
was on the floor right below them with a new toy, managed to get
up on her hands and knees. "Oh Wesley look," Serenity said in
excitement.
"I see, I see," he said happily. "Although she is a
little late."
"Our baby always needs her time, but she gets everything
done well when she gets to it dearest."
Wesley smiled. "You are right honey."
Serenity showed up early for her training at the bank.
She was a bank clerk. When she returned home from work, she was
able to enjoy an extra hour of sleep thankfully.
After a couple of weeks, they got the idea of how the
schedule would work with another extra day for Wesley to sleep
and an extra hour of sleep every night for Serenity. They were
both feeling considerably better and more rested. It also helped
that by now Serena had been sleeping for longer periods of time
before waking up and crying. Serenity had noticed that her
daughter seemed very insecure and cried a lot. She was very
emotional and needed a lot of nurturing. Luckily both Serenity
and Wesley were good nurturers and enjoyed taking care of Serena.
Serenity was noticing improvements in Serena's insecurity and
that her baby was crying less. She was so glad theywere laying a
good foundation for her precious daughter.
At the end of January, Wesley and Serenity were enjoying
their day off playing a card game while Serena was playing with
her stuffed animals on the floor. One of them was away from the
pile, and she got on her hands and knees. Serenity looked down
and knew instinctively as well as from weeks of this happening
that Serena would be reaching for the stuffed animal, so
Serenity got up to get it. Wesley stopped her. "What is it?"
Serenity asked, turning to look at him for a second.
"Look," he said.
She looked back toward Serena, and she saw that Serena
was slowly crawling to the stuffed animal. She was taking awhile
and started crying halfway there. Serenity instinctively bent
down to reach for her.
"Wait," Wesley said, holding her arm gently.
"Wesley, she is crying."
"I know, but just give her a minute to try to figure it
out and get there on her own."
"I cannot stand the sound Wesley," Serenity said in
desperation. He let go of her arm.
"Serenity, calm down honey." He embraced her. "It is
all right. I am sorry. Go if you want. I was just thinking we
could give her a minute. If she does not figure it out, we will
help her out of course darling. I know you do not like the sound.
I do not either. I care for her as much as you do, but I want to
give her a chance to figure these things out on her own."
Serenity's eyes softened. "All right, just a minute,"
she said.
"Right," Wesley agreed.
Serena crawled the rest of the way and picked up the
stuffed animal happily. She started giggling and cooing.
Serenity smiled and giggled too, sitting down on the floor next
to her daughter. "Good job Serena. I am soooo proud of you my
precious daughter. Love you so much," and she kissed her
daughter softly on the forehead.
Wesley sat down next to them. "Love you both so much,"
he said, kissing his daughter on the forehead and his wife on
the cheek affectionately.
Serenity smiled happily.
Serena was over seven months now, and it was a snowy
Valentine's Day. Wesley got off of work and came home that
afternoon. "I have a surprise for you Serenity," he said
happily. She had the day off from work.
She came out of the kitchen with delicious smelling
cookies she had just baked for him. "What is it dearest?" she
asked, handing him a cookie.
He looked at her happily. "Oh yum. Thank you for baking
these delicious morsels," he said. She smiled and giggled. They
sat down. "I found out something we have been missing out on
this entire time. I was telling Roger how I was not sure what
we could do for Valentine's Day to make it special stuck inside
with the baby, and he explained something to me about Earth
customs. Apparently, we can pay a person to do what is called
baby-sit for our daughter. This means the person would look
after the baby for a few hours if we wanted, and we pay them
for the service. Apparently it is a common practice here on
Earth. It would not be like leaving our baby in daycare all
day. It is just to give us a few hours of a break every once in
awhile."
Serenity smiled. "Oh that is wonderful. I suppose that
it would be all right if we found someone we felt safe enough
with sometime, but that will take time. I do not think we should
do that this Valentine's Day. Perhaps for another holiday and
for Valentine's Day next year of course."
Wesley nodded. "I found someone I feel safe looking
after her, and I think you will feel safe with her looking after
Serena too. She should be here in a few minutes."
"Who is it?"
"Leslie."
"Oh darling, that is wonderful. Oh thank you," she
embraced him. "Leslie would be wonderful."
"I am so glad. I got us reservations at that nice
restaurant we ate out at after my first wages here on Earth. Do
you remember it?"
"Oh Wesley, of course I remember it dearest."
"I am so glad darling."
So they enjoyed a night out at the restaurant, and they
both enjoyed the peaceful stroll home in one another's arms
without the distraction of the baby. Of course Serenity could
not help worrying some about Serena and Leslie though, and when
they got to the apartment, she rushed in and saw Leslie holding
Serena and rocking her. "She was crying, but I think she is all
right now," Leslie said simply.
Serenity nodded and gently took Serena from Leslie's
hands. "Thank you so much for helping us out Leslie. It is so
kind of you."
Leslie smiled. "No problem. Didn't have anything better
to do sadly."
"Oh Leslie, you will find someone eventually. I know
it. Try to have patience. I know how hard that is. These things
take time sometimes."
"Oh I know Serenity. I know. Thanks! I will see you
later."
"Wait, here is your paycheck," Wesley said as he walked
into the room.
"Oh all right. Thanks. Take care you two."
"Take care Leslie," Serenity said.
"See you soon," Wesley added.
It was a beautiful spring morning in March, and Serena
was nearly nine months old. Serenity and Wesley were taking
turns pushing the stroller with Serena in it through the park
on this cheerful morning. The birds were chirping, and Wesley
and Serenity were smiling at each other, drinking in each
other's presence. They were both so busy, but on these mornings
they both had off they often did go for a stroll through the
park now that it was spring. Serenity loved to look at Wesley.
He still brought such contentment and peace to her heart and
soul that she felt like the luckiest person alive to be with
him. Wesley still felt such joy and serenity from being with
Serenity as well, so he would often sneak in side glances at
her and raise his eyebrow or wink at her. Serenity would
giggle. "You are so silly," she would say.
Wesley chuckled, and held her close, looking into her
faint purple eyes. "I love you Serenity."
"I love you too Wesley," she said joyfully.
They enjoyed looking at the beautiful pink cherry
blossoms on the trees and the fluffy white clouds in the light
blue sky. The soundsof birds chirping and insects humming were
music to their ears. They both enjoyed the feel of the fresh
green grass under their feet, so they would take off their
sandals and run through it some. People would often look at
them strangely, but neither one cared. They were living life.
There was a fountain toward the end of the park away from their
apartment. They often walked there and sat down for awhile.
Today they did again. The beautiful clear water spurted down
into the pool of water with lots of coins people had tossed in
while making wishes. Serenity thought it was so magical and
absolutely loved it. She felt like it was familiar somehow, but
she could not ever quite determine where that feeling of
familiarity came from. When they sat down today, Serenity
splashed Wesley.
"Hey!" he exclaimed. Then he got a mock evil grin on
his face, and he cupped his hands together, allowing the water
to run into it. Then he dumped it on Serenity's head. She
looked at him in shock and began splashing large amounts of
water onto him. The water war continued escalating, and by the
time they were done they were both gasping for air and soaking
wet. Not to mention they were both getting quite a few strange
stares from people. They just smiled sheepishly and returned
home with Serena who was happy and giggling all day with them.
April Fool's Day was a fun day for everyone too.
Neither Serenity nor Wesley played any pranks or jokes on one
another. They spent the day laughing and joyful though. They
enjoyed sitting on the floor and being with Serena and one
another. Wesley would lift up Serena's arms and wave them up
and down while Serena giggled happily. Serenity smiled as
Wesley gently and carefully lifted Serena up in the air and
pretended she was slowly flying. Serena's beautiful baby face
lighted up in the most innocent, joyful smile. Her small,
adorable giggle made Serenity feel all warm and loved by her
young daughter inside.
It was a sunny day in mid-May as Serenity was getting
ready for work, and Wesley was attempting to get up from his
nap. Serenity ran into the bedroom to get a nice new gold
necklace she had bought to wear to work. "Have a good day at
work," Wesley mumbled, looking up but still in bed. She nodded.
When she ran back into the kitchen where she had very
briefly left Serena, she saw Serena struggling to get out of
her chair where Serenity had been feeding her. Serenity lifted
her baby up out of the chair and gently placed her on the
ground. "There you go precious," she said softly.
Serena cooed, and she got on her knees. Then she began
struggling to get up higher. Serenity realized she was trying
to stand up on her own. "Wesley, get up!" she screamed. Serena
began crying. "Oh no, it is all right Serena baby. Hush,
hush," she said softly, humming to Serena and kneeling beside
her. Serena quickly quieted down and started cooing and
struggling to stand up again.
Wesley rushed in. "What is it?" he asked, rubbing his
tired eyes.
Serenity did not answer, but Wesley saw for himself as
his baby girl started standing up slowly on her own. "Oh
Serena," Serenity said, rushing to her baby and holding her.
"I am sooo proud of you precious, so proud." She began rocking
her baby and humming.
Wesley smiled happily and said, "I am so proud too.
What a good job you did standing all on your own precious
daughter." He hugged her gently, and then lifted her up in the
air. Serena giggled happily. Serenity smiled happily.
"Oh, I have to go," Serenity realized.
"Take care dearest," Wesley said quietly, picking up
Serena and walking with her to the door. He gave her a quick
peck on the cheek as she rushed out the door.
Serenity and Serena's birthdays snuck up on the family
quickly, and when Serenity got up that morning that she had
off, but Wesley did not, she ended up letting herself go back
to sleep with the baby crib right beside her bed. She woke up
again around noon and enjoyed sleeping late as well as feeling
amazed Serena had let her sleep so long. She sighed and wiggled
under the covers, enjoying the feel of waking up at noon. Soon
Serena was crying though, and she got up slowly, stretching out
into a comfortable position and getting up. She lifted Serena
up carefully and said, "Happy birthday precious." She hummed to
her while she changed her diaper and clothes. Then she went
into the kitchen with Serena and fed her. Serena quieted down
and smiled and cooed happily. Serenity smiled and fixed herself
some lasagna. She ate it in the living room while Serena
enjoyed her toys on the soft living room carpet. Serenity held
her in her lap for awhile after she was done eating. When
Wesley returned home, he smiled at the loving, comfortable
picture they created and sat down beside them.
"Happy Birthday precious," he said, kissing Serena
softly on the forehead. Then he looked at Serenity, leaned over,
and kissed her fully on the mouth. She smiled. "Happy Birthday
to you too dearest," he said joyfully.
Serenity smiled. "Thank you dearest."
"You are 20 years old Serenity. It is time to celebrate.
You are an adult with me yay!"
Serenity giggled. "Our baby is a year old."
"Oh, I know. I am so excited!"
Serena smiled, sensing they were happy and talking about
her as they looked at her happily.
"Here is your present precious," he said, handing a
small wrapped gift to Serena. Serena held it and turned it
around, cooing softly, and then trying to put it in her mouth.
Serenity giggled. "Here let me help you with that
precious," she said, glaring at Wesley as a joke.
Wesley opened his eyes wide. "Well, what did I do to
deserve that? I guess someone does not want their gift."
Serenity laughed. "Oh Wesley, I was just joking."
"Sure you were," Wesley said.
Serenity smiled and unwrapped Serena's gift, tearing
off the paper everywhere. Wesley chuckled. "What? It is no fun
unwrapping it carefully. Wrapping paper is meant to be
destroyed," Serenity said happily.
Wesley chuckled. "I love you so much darling."
"I love you so much too honey," she said, looking into
his eyes.
"Well, here is your gift," he said as he handed it to
her after Serena had unwrapped her new toy.
Serenity smiled and tore into the gift like a ravenous
animal. She smiled in joy when she saw the back massager. "Oh
Wesley, thank you. It is perfect," she said, embracing him.
Wesley smiled. "I am glad. I thought it could help you
with your stress."
"And I am sure there was no ulterior motive, like an
occasional back massage for you when you are under stress?"
Serenity asked, teasing.
"Oh no, of course not," Wesley said. "However, if you,
as the kind wife you are, wanted to offer you tired husband a
back massage on a stressful day, it would not be refused," he
added.
Serenity laughed. "You trickster you."
Wesley laughed too. They ate cake, enjoyed the time with
Serena, and went to bed early.
The next day Wesley mentioned that she should have been
walking by now, and Serenity reassured him that Serena would get
it done in her own time. "We should not pressure her; just give
her the time she needs. She will get there, and it will be
amazing," she reassured him.
"How can you be so calm?" he said worriedly.
"The roles do seem to be reversed do they not? You are
always the calm one, but when it comes to your child you get so
nervous. I understand. She means so much to you." Wesley nodded
his head in agreement. "However, I know what it is like to be
pushed into something too soon. Believe me. She will get there
in her own time, and she will not be any worse off than any other
child. I am sure of it."
Wesley smiled. "I will try not to. I am so glad you have
such strong convictions about this. It helps me. Thank you
honey." He kissed her on the cheek and headed out the door for
work.
It was only a few days later when Serenity and Wesley
were sitting in the living room with Serena, helping her stand,
that Serenity went over to the television to get one of Serena's
toys off of it she had placed up there earlier. Serena cooed and
started to slowly take unsteady steps toward Serenity. Serenity
turned around when she heard Wesley's gasp and saw her child
slowly walking toward her unsteadily. She started to help her,
but Wesley looked at her to remind her to let their child do it
on her own if possible. Serenity nodded and sat down with her
arms outstretched toward Serena. Serena got there eventually and
fell into Serenity's outstretched arms. Giggling and smiling
happily as Serenity rocked with her and hummed, congratulated
her, and gaveher the toy she had been wanting. Although Serena
had said a few words here and there she amazed them again by
actually saying mama to Serenity, showing that she actually
recognized Serenity as her mother. Serenity smiled happily and
as Wesley smiled and came downon the floor to sit with them, she
said, "Dada." He smiled happily too.
Once every three months there was a fireworks show at
night, and Wesley and Serenity wanted to try to go to one now.
This one was on July 10, and they had planned for awhile to go
to the show that night. They both had the day off, and when
Serenity came home from a shopping trip that morning to see
Wesley feeding Serena, she smiled at the picture and walked up to
Wesley. "Wesley you are never going to believe what I found," she
said in excitement."
"What is it?" Wesley asked.
"There are flyers everywhere about the one year
anniversary celebration of the new rulers of Earth, King Damion
and Queen Darla, coming up in a little over six months.
"Ah, I see. What is your point? You want to go to this?"
"Well, perhaps. More importantly, Darla is married now.
That means her parents cannot control her. We can go there and
see her. I bet she has contact information for Miriam who I am
sure must still be in contact with Lune if Darla is not."
Wesley smiled happily. "Oh this is wonderful news
darling. Finally you can get in contact with them again."
"Oh my gosh. I have so much to tell them all. We just
have to find the palace. Can we go today please? I want to see
her right away and hear about how she is doing."
"We have the fireworks tonight dearest, remember?"
"Yes, I know. We will make sure to be back in time.
Please Wesley, please. This is so important to me."
"Dearest I am not stopping you. You do not need my
permission to go."
"Oh I know that, but I wanted you and Serena to come
too."
"Oh, I see. All right, why not? Then I can make sure
we get back in time for the fireworks too."
"What are you saying? That I cannot handle that
responsibility myself?" Serenity asked.
"No silly," Wesley said. "Just an observation. Do you
want to go now?"
"Well, let us look up where she lives and get
directions first."
Wesley nodded as Serenity went to look up the
information.
When they arrived at the palace, they were having such
a difficult time getting in. They could not actually tell the
guards who they were. They pretended to be ambassadors for the
Moon Kingdom, but the guards at the gate saw through that right
away. So instead Serenity said, "will you please ask Darla to
come to the gate? I know she will recognize me as a friend from
long ago. You can tell her my name is Samantha, but tell her that
she will not recognize the name, just my face. If she could simply
come out here. It is so important."
"All right," one of the guards gave in.
"I do not think this is wise," the other guard said
cautiously.
"Well, I guess that is for Queen Darla to decide," the
first guard shot back.
The second guard nodded in agreement as the first guard
went into the palace. Wesley and Serenity squirmed under his harsh
gaze. It reminded Serenity of her days back in the Moon Kingdom
and brought up some old feelings she really did not like, but she
managed to get through it. All the time she was holding Serena
near and holding Wesley's hand tightly.
Several minutes later Darla emerged with the guard and
walked toward them. She looked at Samantha and nodded. "Let her
in. She is an old friend."
As they all walked toward wherever Darla was leading
them, Darla said, "it has been so long since anyone has heard
from you. How are you Serenity?"
"I am doing so well. Wesley and I have a child, Serena.
See," she said.
Darla looked at Serena and smiled some. "She is a
beautiful child. I am pregnant myself," she said, rubbing her
bulging belly.
"Oh, how exciting," Serena said.
"Yes, it will be my second child," Darla explained. My
first boy is nearly four now.
"Oh my, how exciting. You must have had him shortly
after I left."
"Yes, it happened when Damion and I heard of our
engagement to be married at the time of my 20th birthday. The
time when all princesses Traditionally do," she emphasized
traditionally. "We did sleep together, not planning to have a
baby until after we were married,but these things happen of
course."
"Yes I suppose so," Serenity said, going in to embrace
her friend. Darla hugged her back but reluctantly Serenity
noticed. *She seems so distant.*
A man with dark midnight blue hair that curled around
his ears and dark black eyes approached them. He was solid and
distant, and Serenity recognized him as the top guard of Prince
Alan from Uranus. She curtseyed, not sure exactly what the
tradition was between a princess and a king. He frowned but did
not say anything. Darla grimaced. "So you are here on Earth," she
said carefully.
Serenity nodded.
"Yes, we have a nice apartment several miles away near
the health club," Wesley said. "You should really come visit us
sometime."
"Oh yes, of course," Darla said strangely, looking at her
husband strangely. He nodded his head, but his face remained
emotionless like a cold slab of stone.
"Well, we are going to the fireworks show tonight, so we
really must be going," Serenity said. She was trying to back out
because she was feeling so uncomfortable. "You think you could
get us in contact with Miriam again?" she asked.
"I think we could arrange that," Darla said.
"Oh, thank you. That is so wonderful. We will see you
soon right?"
"Yes, of course," Darla answered.
"Until next time, take good care my friend."
Darla grimaced at the mention of friend and nodded her
head. "You too," she simply answered.
They did enjoy the fireworks that night with Serena
although she was scared by the loud sounds as they feared, so they
did not stay long. They walked home quietly through the park.
Serenity felt so excited at the thought of finally hearing from
Miriam and Lune, but she also felt uneasy too for some reason she
could not seem to pinpoint. Serenity and Wesley had begun to allow
Serena to sleep in the room across from them but with the baby
monitor still right next to their bed of course. They were
enjoying getting closer to a full night's sleep now, and they were
feeling more rested in general. Serenity was enjoying these times
greatly as was Wesley, and she could not wait to include Miriam,
Darla, and Lune in them.
The next morning Wesley and Serenity took Serena out for
a morning stroll through the park. While they were in the park,
walking along the sidewalk and admiring the beautiful summer
flowers and trees, a little boy with shiny black hair walked up
to them. Serenity could not figure out why he looked so familiar.
He walked up to Serena and put his finger out. "Hi," he said.
Serenity giggled.
"That is the boy from before," Wesley said.
Serena giggled and put her hand around his finger,
smiling. Her whole face seemed to be lit up with joy.
Serenity smiled as the boy walked away again. "What boy
from when? Why does he seem so familiar?" Serenity wondered out
loud.
"He should. About a year ago we ran into him on our two
month anniversary. He liked Serena then too I remember."
Serenity smiled. "Ah yes, how adorable."
Wesley nodded his head in agreement. "I do wonder about
him though."
"Oh, our three year anniversary is coming up. How
exciting," Serenity interjected happily. "What should we do for
it?"
"What do you want to do dearest?"
"Oh goodness. I do not know."
"Me neither. Let us just go with the flow. We can do
whatever comes to our mind that day."
Serenity smiled. "That is a good idea." They embraced and
walked the rest of the way home in contentment.
When they got back to the apartment, Wesley went right in
while Serenity took Serena out of the stroller and put Serena's
stroller out by the door. She entered holding Serena and
immediately felt something was wrong. The door slammed shut
behind her, and she saw near the archway and the hall four guards
holding Wesley down.
"WESLEY," she screamed.
A figure shimmered in front of her. It was the image of
her mother. "Wesley is going to prison for his crimes daughter.
As should you, but you will be returning where you belong. You
will punished severely for your insolent behavior."
Serenity's mouth opened in fear, and she instinctively
held Serena nearer and clung onto her tighter.
"So that is the devil child that came from him," Queen
Selenity said angrily, looking quickly at Wesley. "I suppose we
will have to figure out something else with her. Now, you are
coming home."
"NOOOOOOOOOOOOO," Wesley screamed, seeing his love
fading away with Queen Selenity.
To Be Continued...